Journeys

We are thrilled to announce an exclusive IRT-hosted tour, South African Spectacular, featuring Rovos Rail’s Pride of Africa! This 17-day journey will take in the best of South Africa — beginning in bustling Johannesburg with three nights at the fabulous Saxon Hotel and Spa. Then board Rovos Rail’s Pride of Africa for the journey south to Cape Town, making stops along the way for three game drives, an ostrich farm visit, Spionkop history and battlefields tour, optional golf outings and the breathtaking Garden Route scenery of mountains and sea. End with four nights at the Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel in scenic Cape Town, where you will experience fine dining, enjoy a winery visit, and tour Table Mountain and the Cape Peninsula.

The Trans-Siberian Express is THE big train ride—an epic 15-day journey spanning two continents and seven time zones. Travel across the world’s most famous railway on board the private Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express.

You’ll spend most days touring cities along the route as well as enjoy three, relaxing all-day train rides. You’ll spend your nights on the train in private train compartments (except on the first and last nights of the tour, when you’ll be in top hotels). Highlights include viewing the early-morning mist rising over Lake Baikal, as you ride outside on the engine, followed by a picnic lunch on a secluded beach.

There’s no better way to see the vastness of Siberia. One of IRT members’ favorite journeys, it’s a trip that will change your life.

Two Imperial Suites will continue to be available on all Golden Eagle departures. These new compartments are the most spacious – 120 square feet – offered on the train and feature a fixed king-sized bed, a dedicated dressing table and lounge area, and more. For more details about the Imperial Suites, click here.

As the world’s foremost malt whisky club, the Scotch Malt Whisky Society — specialists in single cask, single malt whiskies — is the perfect partner for this special Scotch Malt Whisky Trail Tour on the Belmond Royal Scotsman. Guests will enjoy the company of a Society Whisky Ambassador on board throughout the journey, along with the Society’s exclusive and rare malts for sampling and discussion.

IRT Exclusive: Click here to see our video of Society President Eleanor Hardy’s trip on the Belmond Royal Scotsman.

Travel through six countries on this epic six-day journey from Istanbul to Paris on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Enjoy luxury-class food, wine, service, off-train tours and romantic, Venice Simplon-Orient-Express atmosphere.

After departing Istanbul, travel through Turkey and Bulgaria, arriving next day in Bucharest for a one-night stay in a 5-star hotel. Continue your journey into Budapest, where you overnight, again in a grand hotel.

The next day, drink in the scenery as the train makes its way to Balaton Lake in Hungary, winding through vineyards and forests. Then, re-board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express for an elegant farewell dinner, before your overnight journey through Germany and into France. Enjoy a delicious farewell lunch on board before the train arrives into Paris Gare de L’est Station, where your tour ends.

Special Report: Click here for travel notes from the Society’s celebratory 20th anniversary Paris-Istanbul VSOE trip, written by Owen Hardy, Society founder, for the Gentleman’s Gazette.

This once-a-year, week-long luxury rail voyage from Paris to istanbul on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a true ‘trip of a lifetime’. Travel through seven countries in elegant style. Food, wine, service, off-train tours, atmosphere: everything is over-the-top.

There is palpable excitement at every stop as the VSOE luxury train travels through France, Switzerland, Austria, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria and Turkey. The world’s most authentic luxury train, the VSOE is the real deal, complete with coal-heated sleeping cars and windows that open. Enjoy gourmet meals in one of the train’s three sumptuous diners, or a late-night drink in the classy bar car.

Board in Paris for your journey through France, Switzerland and Austria towards Budapest. Overnight at a five-star Budapest hotel, then continue through Hungary and into Romania. Enjoy the next day and night in Bucharest at yet another grand hotel.

The next day, stop in Bulgaria before enjoying your last night and day on board as the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train arrives in Istanbul.

This two-train tour follows in the footsteps of Marco Polo along one of the world’s oldest and most historic trade routes. The luxurious Golden Eagle and the first-class Shangri-La Express train will transport you back in time through five countries.

This great caravan road linked the kings of Europe with the luxuries of Asia—most significantly, its silks and spices. It is preserved to a remarkable degree.

Tour the Gobi Desert on camel, and see the Terracotta Warriors of Xian. Marvel at the architecture and artistry on display in the mosques and buildings of Central Asia’s most important medieval cities.

Wander through local markets offering Uzbek textiles and ceramics. Explore the history-rich cities of Beijing and Moscow. And do it all from the comfort of your “hotel-on-wheels!”

Ancient legends, inspiring natural beauty and vibrant cities—see the highlights of “the Emerald Isle” with a complete journey through both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Tours from Dublin on the BelmondGrand Hibernian are sure to stay with you for a lifetime.

Let yourself be captivated by Ireland’s charms as you journey in peerless luxury. Anticipate your journey on the Belmond Grand Hibernian to be accentuated by magical encounters, world-class cuisine and exceptional service.

Ancient legends, inspiring natural beauty and vibrant cities—see the highlights of “the Emerald Isle” with a complete journey through both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Tours from Dublin on the BelmondGrand Hibernian are sure to stay with you for a lifetime.

Let yourself be captivated by Ireland’s charms as you journey in peerless luxury. Anticipate your journey on the Belmond Grand Hibernian to be accentuated by magical encounters, world-class cuisine and exceptional service.

The tour many Rovos Rail staff rank number one: a panoramic 2,100-mile, 10-day South African sojourn departing three times annually, with optional activities for golfers.

Travel from Pretoria eastwards to Malelane, south through Swaziland to Durban, and southwest through Port Elizabeth, Oudtshoorn and George to Cape Town.

Enjoy game drives in Kruger Park, Hluhluwe Game Reserve and Addo Elephant Park; spend an evening in Durban and visit an ostrich farm in Oudtshoorn. From Knysna the train travels along the Indian Ocean on the scenic Garden Route before ending in Cape Town.

Note: Golfers have the option of playing six challenging courses, including Ernie Els’ Oubaai Golf Club.

Latest News:Click here to get on the “first notice” list for our special African Collage tour hosted by IRT’s Angela Walker. Tour dates are October 27-November 12, 2019. We will contact you with booking instructions as soon as itinerary details and pricing are finalized.

Among the optional extensions to be offered: a trip on Rovos Rail’s “rival” luxury rail service, the fabulous and very modern Blue Train.

Experience the ultimate in Irish holidays and uncover the hidden gems of the Emerald Isle aboard the luxurious Belmond Grand Hibernian.

Begin in Dublin and first travel south to Cork. Then, wind your way up the west coast and visit Killarney, Galway and Westport. Highlights include behind the scenes tour of Jameson’s Whiskey distillery, “kissing” the Blarney Stone, the spectacular lakes of Killarney, breath-taking scenery of Connemara National Park, sporting activities at Ashford Castle, and traditional Irish music and lunch in Galway.

Let yourself be taken by the spirit of adventure. Visit thrilling destinations as the train crosses through postcard-perfect scenery. Dine on lovingly prepared cuisine, enriched by the finest regional ingredients, while traditional local entertainment aboard brings each memorable day to a close.

Discover the fascinating history, vibrant culture, and medieval relics of this enchanting region as we venture through the lush landscapes of the Balkan states and their neighboring countries on the Balkan Explorer journey aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express. Meandering through verdant landscapes and along turquoise coastlines, this exclusive rail cruise delivers a captivating exploration of the Balkan nations and their surrounding countries.

Explore Eastern Europe’s Balkans on the Golden Eagle Danube Express‘ Balkan Odyssey luxury rail journey. This is a region synonymous with history and legend, stunning architecture and colorful people, yet also with war and tragedy. In one glorious sweep, you’ll travel from Budapest, where you’ll spend two nights at the famed Four Seasons Gresham Palace, then through Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Slovenia, and on into Venice’s Santa Lucia Station. And you’ll do so in comfort, aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express.

The Danube Express‘ Balkan Odyssey passes through some of Europe’s most poignant and destructive periods of conflict, complemented by a fascinating insight into the future of modern Europe. The city of Budapest, a remarkable blend of medieval and Baroque style, is our starting point for this remarkable journey. Before boarding our exclusive train, we will take time to discover the absorbing history of the once divided cities of Buda and Pest and explore some of its modern day customs.

Settle in to your private compartments aboard the elegant Golden Eagle Danube Express as your rail voyage meanders through stunningly beautiful countryside and awe-inspiring mountain ranges on an exploration of the mythical Transylvania region. We then route westwards though the intriguing countries of the former Yugoslavia. At the end of this remarkable journey, we reach the stunning maritime city of Venice, a unique mix of Gothic and Renaissance palaces perched on the edge of the Italian coast.

Belmond Royal Scotsman Scotland’s Classic Splendours Tour is one of the best in the world. From the bagpipes and intimate musical events, to the grand sweep of the moors and the gorges, the Belmond Royal Scotsman’s Classic Splendours Tour is a journey straight to the heart of the Scottish Highlands.

Life on the train is relaxed and indulgent, with the freshest, finest local produce served in the dining cars. From Edinburgh, the train follows the east coast up to Keith, then journeys to the picturesque west coast village of Plockton, thence to Inverness and south to Perth.

Two highlights: a private tour and tasting at Glen Ord Distillery and a personal tour of Ballindalloch, with its magnificent castle and gardens. Other activities include clay pigeon shooting or guided walking along Caledonian pine forest trails. Life on the train is relaxed and indulgent, with the freshest, finest local produce served in the dining cars and nights in the all en-suite sleeping cars spent at quiet sidings. This is one of IRT’s favorite train experiences — and once aboard, you will see why. Combine it with the Western Scenic Wonders Tour, and you have one of IRT President Eleanor Hardy’s favorite journeys of all time.

IRT Exclusive: Click here to see our video of Society President Eleanor Hardy’s trip on the Belmond Royal Scotsman.

Join respected British gardening writer Sue Chivers and photographer Patsy Floyd on a memorable rail journey around some of Scotland’s finest country homes and gardens. Enjoy personal tours given by members of the family, as well as welcome drinks in their homes and walks through their beautiful gardens.

Belmond Royal Scotsman‘s Heritage Homes & Gardens – Autumn Tour is a discovery of outstanding autumnal gardens as you venture on a scenic rail journey into the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, and Southwest Scotland.

Life on the train is relaxed and indulgent, with the freshest, finest local produce served in the dining cars.

New to the Belmond Royal Scotsman in 2017: full-service spa car. Inquire when you book your journey!

IRT Exclusive: Click here to see our video of Society President Eleanor Hardy’s trip on the Belmond Royal Scotsman.

Northern Spain’s luxurious El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo, a gem of a train, travels slowly between Santiago and San Sebastián, along northern “Green Spain,” stopping for exceptional meals to explore local cuisine. Fresh ingredients and fine wines enhance the dining experiences—a highlight of this tour. End in San Sebastián, a day-train ride from France, Barcelona or Madrid. The new train has all Deluxe Suites and takes only 28 persons.

And let us book your hotels pre- and post-train. We offer a great value on hotel bookings with our Virtuoso partner hotels: the offer includes exclusive and valuable complimentary amenities which add a value of hundreds of dollars to your booking.

Linking Bangkok and Singapore, the Eastern & Oriental Express provides a satisfying introduction to four great cultures, as revealed by the glittering Thai temples of Bangkok and Singapore’s exciting mix of Chinese, Indian, and Malay architecture and cuisine. The mid-journey sightseeing choices include the famed bridge over the River Kwai, a cycle tour to a village, or a culinary tour to a market and an ancient noodle factory. Each are fascinating and well-received already this season.

New in 2018: A much smaller group of guests on board — 82 maximum, a significant drop from the earlier max of 132. All guests enjoy the above-mentioned amazing touring choices as well as complimentary house wines and well drinks. (Specialty wines, cocktails, and spirits are billable.) Guests in Presidential Suites enjoy a host of new amenities, including complimentary and exclusive in-cabin wi-fi and complimentary private limousine transfers to/from train stations in Bangkok & Singapore. Presidential Suites also include:

– A bottle of champagne and fruit basket in cabin on arrival
– Complimentary mini bar – stocked with a selection of spirits, local beer, soft drinks and chocolate
– Complimentary on board pressing service
– Wireless speaker in cabin

Linking Singapore and Bangkok, the Eastern & Oriental Express provides a satisfying introduction to four great cultures, as revealed by Singapore’s exciting mix of Chinese, Indian, and Malay architecture and cuisine, and the glittering Thai temples of Bangkok. The mid-journey sightseeing choices include the famed bridge over the River Kwai, a cycle tour to a village, or a culinary tour to a market and an ancient noodle factory. Each are fascinating and well-received already this season.

New in 2018: A much smaller group of guests on board — 82 maximum, a significant drop from the earlier max of 132. All guests enjoy the above-mentioned amazing touring choices, as well as complimentary house wines and well drinks. (Specialty wines, cocktails, and spirits are billable.) Guests in Presidential Suites enjoy a host of new amenities, including complimentary and exclusive in-cabin wi-fi and complimentary private limousine transfers to/from train stations in Singapore & Bangkok. Presidential Suites also include:

– A bottle of champagne and fruit basket in cabin on arrival
– Complimentary mini bar, stocked with a selection of spirits, local beer, soft drinks, and chocolate
– Complimentary on-board clothes pressing service
– Wireless speaker in cabin

With seven nights aboard, this is one of our favorite trips: Enjoy the Belmond Royal Scotsman and Scotland to the full. The Grand Western Scenic Wonders tour combines the Classic Splendors and Western Scenic Wonders itineraries for a comprehensive exploration of Scotland.

Enjoy the many highlights along the way, including a personal invitation to visit Ballindalloch, with its magnificent house and gardens. Relax and experience the magnificent West Highland scenery and a private view of Mount Stuart, one of Britain’s most spectacular Victorian Gothic houses.

This itinerary also allows plenty of time to relax on board enjoying the train’s wonderful meals, service and other amenities.

IRT Exclusive: Click here to see our video of Society President Eleanor Hardy’s trip on the Belmond Royal Scotsman.

Blue Train Luxury Safari is one of our favorite journeys. We paired the Blue Train with five-star hotels and luxury Belmond Botswana safari camps. Our journey includes unique experiences, from the Blue Train itself, to beautiful Cape Town, to unique stays in the Botswana bush.

But remember: book early; the camps are small and popular.

*Special Value: We extend valuable complimentary and exclusive amenities to our guests at every accommodation in this Blue Train Luxury Safari because we are members of the exclusive Bellini Club and members of Virtuoso. They include but are not limited to dining credits, spa credits and helicopter rides.

And special care is taken from the minute you are met at the airport by your hostess plane-side to the time he or she waves goodbye after seeing you to your international gate. Before you know it, you’ll be whisked to the Belmond Mount Nelson, our favorite hotel in Cape Town, where they coddle our guests with the finest of everything. Then, take the sophisticated Blue Train for arrival Johannesburg. We organize your stay at our favorite, the five-star Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa. After sightseeing in this world-class city, fly to Maun and on to the fabulous safari camps run by Belmond. Belmond Eagle Island Lodge and Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge are both newly renovated and fabulous. We love this itinerary — and we ought to know, because we designed it to celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary. Take someone special to South Africa and Botswana. Let us know it’s a celebration, and we’ll do all we can to make it very special!

Latest News: Book your 2019 Rocky Mountaineer journey of eight days or more before October 26, 2018, and receive $600 per couple in added value. Can be used on hotel nights, hotel meals, and additional sightseeing. Blackout dates apply.

New in 2017: Sonora Resort, Canada’s premiere wilderness resort, is the perfect complement to your train journey. Add two (or more) post-nights at this all-inclusive lodge, accessible only by float plane or boat from Vancouver. Enjoy hiking and biking trails, experience a guided salmon-fishing outing, or go on a grizzly bear viewing tour. Call / e-mail us for details.

Society of IRT Added Value: Get a free, one-way limo transfer (U.S. dollar value +$100) to/from Vancouver airport when you book this or any other Rocky Mountaineer trip on our website.

Take this legendary Trans-Canada rail tour on two first-class trains: The Canadian, with VIA Rail’s lovely service, including its new, luxurious Prestige Class, and the all-daylight Rocky Mountaineer train.

See Niagara Falls, and spend four days exploring the pristine wilds of Lake Louise, Jasper and Banff National Parks. Tour runs between Toronto and Vancouver. Cross northern Ontario’s scenic lake lands, the prairies of Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta and the towering Canadian Rockies, before ending on the Pacific Coast.

Take this legendary Trans-Canada rail tour on two first-class trains: The Canadian, with VIA Rail’s lovely service, including its new, luxurious Prestige Class, and the all-daylight Rocky Mountaineer train.

The Sicilian Odyssey begins with one night at the iconic five-star Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace in the romantic city of Budapest. From there, you’ll board the luxurious and comfortable Danube Express and travel briefly through Hungary and Slovenia before crossing into Italy.

Wend your way through the many cities and and provinces of Southern Italy and Sicily, stopping along the way to soak up the history and local culture with guided tours and experiences. Then, spend two nights at a five-star hotel in Taormina.

Enjoy guided city tours of Budapest, Venice, San Marino, Bari, Naples, Palermo, and Taormina. Tour the crumbling ruins of Pompeii in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius, and the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Valle Dei Templi in Agrigento. Take an optional tour to Corleone, where you’ll learn about the notorious Mafia fame’s made famous by Francis Ford Coppola’s motion picture, The Godfather. Experience a hands-on cooking demonstration in Ragusa. Visit the historical center of Syracuse by — the Island of Ortigia — by boat. Tour Mount Etna with a local volcanologist and enjoy the sight of the beautiful Gulf of Naxos from the heights of Taormina — and much more!

The all-inclusive itinerary and the comfortable luxury of the Danube Express will whisk you from location to location in a way not possible by any other means of travel.